Huddersfield University partners with Innova to improve pressure care

October 12, 2018

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Innova Care Concepts has teamed up with Huddersfield University to research and improve the effectiveness of pressure care equipment in healthcare.

The studies have included rigorous testing and product developments to ensure that patients are getting the best care possible. It is estimated that pressure ulcers cost the NHS over £3.8 million every year in the United Kingdom.

Innova has been assisting in the studies over the past couple of years by providing their own pressure care mattresses and pumps to The Future Metrology Hub, part of the University’s School of Computing and Engineering.

“It’s been a real privilege to work with Huddersfield University with their studies. It’s great for us to be working toward a common goal of eradicating pressure injuries in healthcare.

“Not only has this given us as equipment suppliers actual evidence that our products are at the cutting-edge of research and technology, but it’s also allowed us to further improve our mattresses and carry-out continuous product development with expert opinions and input.”

Extensive pressure mapping and panel discussions have taken place to assess each item. This even included Joe laying on mattresses for a long time to measure body weight redistribution over time. The researchers also carried out a sound test on the pump to make sure it would not disrupt the patient, and they tested the stretchiness and durability of the mattress covers.

Pressure injuries are caused when patients cannot move and reposition themselves often enough to redistribute their body weight. The build-up of pressure often a sustained period eventually stops oxygen from reaching the skin, causing the skin cells to die and an open wound to form.

The ‘Stop the Pressure’ campaign was first launched in 2012 by NHS Midlands and East to raise awareness of pressure ulcers and how to prevent them. Since then, companies like Innova have developed specialist air mattresses and cushions that help to redistribute the patient’s body weight over a long period of time.